On November 8, the highly anticipated 2024 Greater Bay Area (GBA) Public Culture and Tourism Products Sourcing Fair opened in Dongguan, instantly drawing the attention of cultural enthusiasts, creators, and visitors from around the world.
This year's fair stands out not only for its scale, with over 374 companies and organizations showcasing their latest cultural innovations, but also for its impressive National Cultural Creators Conference, where 100 leading cultural creators from across China gathered to share their visions. Through carefully crafted experiences, immersive performances, and innovative exhibitions, the fair celebrates a rich fusion of Lingnan culture, contemporary art, and high-tech innovation.
International influencers and creators found themselves mesmerized by the fair's offerings. One such attendee, Victoria, a Belarusian blogger, was spellbound after watching Keyuan Keyuan, Dongguan's first experimental Chinese music drama. "It was truly a breathtaking performance," she shared.
"This was my first time feeling the full power of traditional Chinese culture up close. The combination of Chinese instruments and the artistry on stage just lifted me. It was as though all my worries drifted away with the music." Her awe echoed the sentiments of many, as Keyuan Keyuan received glowing praise for its dreamlike set design, enchanting lighting, and the powerful emotions of Lingnan culture it so beautifully conveyed.
Elsewhere, a Mauritian influencer explored the cultural booths and found herself captivated by the diverse and vibrant displays of creativity. Traditional handicrafts, such as blue-dye techniques, hand-made incense sachets, and sand candle art, pulled her in. "Everywhere I turn, there's something new and inspiring!" she remarked, her hands filled with uniquely crafted souvenirs.
The National Cultural Creators Conference brought together some of the most influential voices in cultural preservation and innovation. Renowned curator and designer James Chu from Macau remarked on his deepening appreciation of Dongguan's cultural vibrancy.
"Over the years, I've seen Dongguan evolve into a cultural hub. It's not only about manufacturing anymore; the city has embraced its unique heritage and identity. I believe the Greater Bay Area has so much untapped potential, not just in technology and production, but in culture as well. This collaboration among curators and creators will surely bring about exciting new opportunities."
Similarly, Nicolas, a French animation director based in Hong Kong, emphasized the unique benefits of the GBA fair for international designers. "Dongguan is the world's creative workshop," he said, noting how the fair brings together artisans and tech innovators alike. "For any designer, this is a rare chance to connect directly with an audience that values both the traditional and the modern. The diversity of styles, from classic Chinese craftsmanship to the cutting-edge graphic design, makes this an event worth attending."
A kaleidoscope of culture
Visitors of all backgrounds marveled at the array of offerings, which included the "Most Lingnan" Hongfu Bridge Market featuring iconic treats like Hong Kong-style milk tea and Macao's butter cake, as well as unique workshops on traditional crafts. In the Dongguan Memories exhibit, old photographs and vintage objects evoked the city's journey from a manufacturing giant to a cultural trailblazer. Elsewhere, Huawei MatePad Pro area blended tech with tradition, giving visitors a hands-on look at the future of creative expression.
The All Best Festival Book Fair, Guan grass Roast Goose artisan stalls, and food stalls featuring Dongguan's famous roast goose provided further immersive experiences, each one reflecting Dongguan's unique character and its people's innovative spirit.
Over the past six years, the GBA Public Culture and Tourism Products Fair has built a platform that fosters the exchange of ideas, resources, and cultural products across the Greater Bay Area. This year's event goes beyond showcasing products; it represents a shared commitment to cultural preservation and reinvention, catering to an increasingly diverse and dynamic audience. The theme "Lingnan culture, more trendy and fun" captures the essence of Dongguan's evolution as it bridges traditional and contemporary, East and West.
As Dongguan continues its journey as a cultural powerhouse, the fair not only fuels the city's cultural ambitions but also strengthens its role in fostering cross-cultural connections. In doing so, it offers a glimpse into the possibilities of a future where global collaboration and cultural celebration go hand in hand.
Source | Dongguan Today
